Kitty Farias' Fundraiser:

The Winners' Last Run - Supporting St. Jude's and the KCHA

THE STORY:

When I lost my grandmother earlier this year, I also lost my most loyal supporter, enthusiastic cheerleader, and biggest fan. So this year, when I run the Wipro SF Marathon - I'm running with her and I'm running for her favorite charities.

Those of you who knew her, whether personally or through my stories, know that Jean had an awesome, twisted sense of humor and was smart, sharp, and tougher than a coffin nail. What you may not know is that underneath it all, she hid a charitable, loving, beautiful soul.

Before she died, she chose two charities that she wanted people to donate to in lieu of flowers. These two charities meant something special to her and are charities that she was deeply committed to throughout her life. They demonstrate that hidden, softer side - the one she'd probably kill me for talking about in a public forum.

So, this year, I'll be running for my grandma and her two favorite charities: St. Jude Children's Research Hospital and the Kanawha/Charleston Humane Association. This is the St. Jude's page. To donate to the KCHA, please visit http://www.crowdrise.com/thewinnerslastrun-kcha.

P.S. If you're curious - the reason the team name is the Winners' Last Run is because "Winners" was our admittedly not creative team name every time played (dominated, she'd say) Canasta -- and this will be our last good run.